Truck transformation offers unique teaching tool

“We purchased a used cab and chassis a few years ago and started building this truck in stages,” explains Bert Samuelson, dean of Lakeland College School of Trades and Technology. “The idea was to create something functional for training that would also stand out at the events we attend and schools we visit.”

Auto/diesel instructors, including Chris Thompson and Stu Ribey, transformed the former welding truck into a showpiece. They added a box and hoist, knuckle boom crane, and storage areas with stainless steel covers. They even manufactured a bumper onsite and had the words Lakeland College water jetted into it and chromed by a supplier. The box was painted black and the college logo added to the doors.

“Thanks to the work of our instructors the truck is attracting attention, and that’s exactly what we wanted to happen,” says Samuelson, who drove the truck in the Vermilion parade in July.

As for its use as a training aid, heavy equipment technician and automotive service technician students use the truck throughout their studies, says Thompson. The Cummins 5.9 litre engine, Allison automatic transmission, anti-lock brake system, power steering, turbo charged systems, air conditioning, hydraulics, fuel system, drive axles and suspension are all studied at some point during their apprenticeship training. Parts technician students also use the vehicle as they identify the various parts and equipment.

“Another good thing about this unit is having all of these elements on one truck has allowed us to more efficiently utilize our shop space,” says Thompson.

It’s taken a few years, but the truck is finally finished – at least for now.

“If you know trades guys, everything is always a work in progress. There’s always new technology coming out and as it does, I’m sure we’ll want to incorporate it into the truck,” says Thompson.